Makerere University has dismissed claims circulating on social media that it postponed its 76th graduation ceremony due to Uganda’s January 2026 general elections.
The false claim alleged that the university shifted the ceremony from its traditional January schedule to the last week of February, citing disruptions caused by the elections. Uganda held its general elections on 15 January 2026 amid reports of arrests, violence and an internet shutdown, leading to heightened political tensions in parts of the country.
However, the university refuted the reports. On 29 January, Makerere University shared a screenshot of the viral post stamped “fake news” across it. In a statement published on its official Facebook page, the institution clarified: “FAKE NEWS ALERT! #Mak76thGrad has not been postponed. Dates remain 24th–27th February 2026 at the Freedom Square.”
The fact-checking organisation Africa Check also found no credible evidence to support the postponement claim. It urged the public to rely on verified sources, particularly during election periods often characterised by misinformation and heightened information flow.
The university’s 76th graduation ceremony will proceed as scheduled from 24 to 27 February 2026
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